Donald Trump’s demeanor was somewhat controlled compared to campaign gatherings. However, his knowledge and therefore his position is still shaky on important issues; he relied on ego and mud slinging as a defense — it showed, often.

If he doesn’t declare clear and justified positions and “team-ness” in a hurry, his electability will drop for obvious lack of competence.

Hillary often double-spoke when she didn’t have answers. They both acted like spoiled brats, didn’t stay on-topic or respect the timing rules.

A worse concern is that not only was Gary Johnson, the Libertarian, not in the debate (another serious strike against the liberal media), but Gary has some valuable contributions to resolving issues the country faces and should definitely have been a part of the debate, if only to stabilize it.

Now, it wouldn’t surprise me if he does serious collateral damage to both in November by getting a sizeable write-in percentage.

— Robert Carter, Torrance

Both have nothing to offer

That was one of the dullest and weirdest presidential debates on record. Both candidates were inarticulate, at times incoherent, and tense trying to be something they aren’t — dignified statesmen/women. Without the entertainment of their dogfight, neither has much to offer.

— Lynn Wood, Long Beach

Focus on achievements

Once again, we are asked to cast our vote based on the negativity of the candidates. And the first debate proved it. Those who like Trump say he won or it was a draw. If you don’t like Trump, you hate him. Those who like Clinton say she won. If you don’t like Clinton, you hate her.

All this hate is based on what the news outlets want us to hear. Very few of us actually have firsthand knowledge of the information they let us have. Some of us have decided to protest by not voting. If anyone thinks that a “no vote” doesn’t count then they better think again. Sure it counts. It counts against all of us and what America stands for. Remember, a “no vote” is a vote against all of us.

This newspaper could do everyone a favor by listing all the achievements the candidates accomplished and everything good they have done. Do not list anything negative. Some people believe the negatives and some choose to ignore it. Let us choose our leaders by who has done the most and done it best.

— Ernie C. Black, Valinda

Clinton the best choice

Hillary Clinton owned up to past mistakes regarding her emails. Donald Trump called himself smart for not paying taxes. Although I am not for either side, I believe Hillary would make a better president.

She’s seen what it’s like to be the president as her husband Bill Clinton served for eight years as president. She not only thinks about the wealthy people but everyone. Hillary is supportive of people struggling to balance work and family. She supports equal pay for women’s work. That has my vote.

During the debate we learned that Trump has not been paying taxes and continues to lie about it. Trump proved his intolerance by interrupting Clinton. He never really answered the questions he was asked. I will not be supporting Trump.